Energy conversion
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Date
2025-12-07
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Publisher
University of Msila
Abstract
In the context of increasing global energy demand and growing environmental concerns, a
thorough understanding of energy conversion processes is essential for the development of
efficient and sustainable energy systems. This book is designed to provide undergraduate
students, particularly those specializing in Energy Engineering, with a solid foundation in the
principles of applied thermodynamics relevant to modern energy technologies.
The content is organized into four interconnected chapters that progressively address the
fundamental aspects of energy systems. The first chapter examines single-phase thermodynamic
cycles that underpin the operation of heat engines and gas-based power systems, including
classical cycles such as Carnot, Otto, Diesel, Brayton, and Stirling, along with techniques for
improving thermal efficiency. The second chapter focuses on two-phase cycles used in steam
power generation, covering the Rankine cycle and its extensions, as well as hybrid energy
systems, cogeneration, and an introduction to nuclear power systems. The third chapter
introduces exergy analysis as an advanced thermodynamic tool for identifying energy losses and
system inefficiencies, with practical applications to gas and steam power plants.
Through a structured and pedagogical approach, this book aims to equip students with the
theoretical knowledge and analytical tools necessary to understand, evaluate, and optimize energy
conversion systems in a sustainable engineering context.
The fourth and final chapter addresses the thermodynamics of combustion, a topic that underpins
many energy systems based on chemical energy conversion. Students are introduced to the
behavior of reactive gas mixtures, stoichiometric calculations, flame temperatures, and the
principles of ignition, both spontaneous and controlled. The chapter also delves into chemical
kinetics, examining reaction mechanisms and factors that influence combustion processes, such
as pressure, temperature, and reaction rates.
Overall, this coursebook is intended to reinforce the knowledge gained through lectures, tutorials,
and practical laboratory sessions. It also serves as a reference guide for academic projects,
research endeavors, and more advanced coursework in the field of energy engineering.
Description
Keywords
Energy engineering, single-phase, thermodynamic cycles, two-phase cycles, concept of exergy, thermodynamics of combustion